King’s Ely student, Hollie Parker, has won the UK U20 1500m title by more than four seconds last Sunday and on the same day, two and a half hours later, finished fifth in the final of the 800m at the Junior Championships in Sheffield. As a result of her fine performances, Hollie has been selected to compete in the England U20 team and will also be running in the National Cross Country Championships.
Since winning her gold medal, Hollie has received 52 offers from US universities to study abroad after her sporting victories at home. Hollie has decided on her short-list: Washington State, Boise State (Idaho), Iona College NY and Louisiana State, all which have world renowned reputations for developing young athletes. She plans to visit the campuses over the Easter holidays after receiving unconditional offers.
Head of Senior School, Alex McGrath said: “There is a proud athletic tradition at King’s Ely, and we are immensely proud of Hollie’s achievements. In this exciting week for her, we celebrate not only her recent victory and national selection, but her opportunity to follow her dreams across the Atlantic. All these accolades are richly deserved from a girl who is not only a dedicated athlete, but a delightful young woman too.”
This continues King’s Ely’s great reputation for developing young athletes, most especially with the Olympian success of Goldie Sayers and the international achievements of top rower, Toby Rudkin. Now, in Hollie, there seems to be a new star emerging. Watch this space!